9 Days Obon Dance Festival | Hiroshima

From Tokyo To Kyoto(Osaka)

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Thursday, December 20, 2018
Updated

No Japan tour through Hiroshima is complete without visiting the A-Bomb Dome. This monument stands in Hiroshima, the first city to suffer an atomic bombing, to symbolize its wishes for everlasting peace.

A-Bomb Dome

Mt. Fuji at 3,776 m high above sea level is the highest and most famous mountain in Japan, and a popular Japan tour spot. Mt. Fuji has been officially registered as an UNESCO’s World Heritage as of 2013.

Mt. Fuji

The Koenji Awaodori Dance Festival is one of many awaodori festivals held throughout Japan. The festival takes place on the last weekend of August and is a highly anticipated event every year.

Awaodori

The Harajuku Yosakoi Festival is a 2-day festival taking place among 5 locations in the Harajuku area where teams of dancers will fill the streets along with floats as well.

Yosakoi

Himeji Castle was registered on UNESCO’s World Heritage list in 1993. It is also known as the White Heron Castle and represents Japanese castle architecture at its highest. It was constructed in the early 1600’s.

Himeji Castle

Fushimi Inari Shrine is visually stunning: thousands of torii gates form an unbroken tunnel of red leading to the crest of Mount Inari. This is the most popular sightseeing site to foreigners.

Fushimi Inari Shrine

Kinkakuji (the Golden Pavilion) is located at the foot of Kinugasa hill. It is the one of the most popular Japan tour sight; it is a famous structure from the Muromachi period. (14-16 Century)

Golden Pavilion

Miyajima Island/Itsukushima Shrine is in the Island Sea and the home of Itsukushima Shrine built in 593 with its famed floating torii gate.

Miyajima

Known as The Bullet Train, The Shinkansen fascinates foreign tourists. Since October 1964, the Shinkansen has been developed as the fastest and safest train. During your Japan tour enjoy a ride on the Shinkansen.

Bullet Train

This is a ceremonial way of preparing and drinking tea. The custom has been strongly influenced by Zen Buddhism. Nowadays, the tea ceremony is a relatively popular hobby. Take part in a tea ceremony (sado) during your Japan tour!

Early Bird Special

Tour Descriptions

Switch it up this summer from the backyard barbecues and same old for a trip to Japan to join an Obon Festival! Enjoy the celebration of this popular summer festival on our Obon Dance Festival | Hiroshima with traditional dancing, yukata (summer kimono), delicious summer snacks, and the energy as families come to celebrate Obon, a time to honor the spirits' of our ancestors!

Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba is the perfect place to stay whether your trip is for business or leisure. The five-star hotel is equip with an indoor/outdoor swimming pool, restaurants, bars, a gym, etc. Located at Odaiba, the hotel offers amazing views of Tokyo waterfront and the Rainbow Bridge. Enjoy the serene and eye catching scenery and entertainment in the area. Joypolis Amusement Park, Diver Aqua City Mall, and Fuji TV Tower are all located near the hotel.

Welcome to Japan! We will have transportation services to take you to your hotel. Please refer to your tour handbook for more information.
Rest at the hotel and be ready to start your exciting tour tomorrow.

**INFORMATION**
From Narita Airport to downtown hotel in Tokyo - about 90 mins(Bus)
From Haneda Airport to downtown hotel in Tokyo - about 30 mins(Bus)

Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba is the perfect place to stay whether your trip is for business or leisure. The five-star hotel is equip with an indoor/outdoor swimming pool, restaurants, bars, a gym, etc. Located at Odaiba, the hotel offers amazing views of Tokyo waterfront and the Rainbow Bridge. Enjoy the serene and eye catching scenery and entertainment in the area. Joypolis Amusement Park, Diver Aqua City Mall, and Fuji TV Tower are all located near the hotel.

We have cleared up the day for you to explore and enjoy Japan as you wish.
You can either1) enjoy the entire day as you wish2) visit Tokyo Disney Land, Fuji Q Amusement Park, or Sanrio Puroland3) join a Japanese Cherry Blossom Walking Tour4) or go on a private-guided tour through Nikko or Kamakura.
For those who wish to visit Tokyo Disney Land, Fuji Q Amusement Park, or Sanrio Puroland, your tour guide will be happy to explain directions.
(Not all fees included for additional tour options. Please contact us in advanced for this service)

Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba is the perfect place to stay whether your trip is for business or leisure. The five-star hotel is equip with an indoor/outdoor swimming pool, restaurants, bars, a gym, etc. Located at Odaiba, the hotel offers amazing views of Tokyo waterfront and the Rainbow Bridge. Enjoy the serene and eye catching scenery and entertainment in the area. Joypolis Amusement Park, Diver Aqua City Mall, and Fuji TV Tower are all located near the hotel.

*Tsukiji Fish Market is closed on Wednesdays and Sundays. In the Event it is closed, we will skip this stop

Today will be devoted to exploring the multi-cultural spots of Tokyo. Our tour will first stop by the Fukagawa Edo Museum where you can get acquainted with the history of Tokyo. This charming museum is designed to replicate what life looked like during the old days of Edo. Walk through the city and enjoy walking into houses that recreate life during the period. We will also visit the Kiyosumi Garden located nearby. Enjoy a peaceful stroll through a Japanese garden, and be sure to take a picture of the tea house on the waters. We will then delve in the old town district of Asakusa for some gift shopping at the Nakamise area. We will also be visiting the Sensoji Temple, one of Tokyo's most popular temples. This is the perfect place to appreciate Japanese culture and take some spectacular shots of the famous Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate).

For lunch, enjoy sushi with fish provided by the Tsukiji Fish Market, the famous fish market that provides freshest ingredients for thousands of families and businesses alike. Following our time at the market, the tour will probe the stores at Harajuku, the unofficial fashion capital of Japan that offers the latest pop culture and fashion. Experience the chaos and beauty that is Takeshita Dori, the place to go for fashion and crepes. Before leaving Takeshita Dori, walk along Omotesando street, a popular shopping destination lined with trendy cafe's in between. Returning to our hotel, the tour bus will be passing by the famous Shibuya Crosswalk to be part of the thousands who cross daily, and to see the Hachiko Statue close to the station. The statue is based on the story of Hachiko, the dog who would come back to the station every day to see his owner.

As the day continues, it's time for dancing and fun during the Obon Festival in Harajuku. Obon is a time to honor the spirits of one's ancestors, a special family reunion holiday where families visit and clean their ancestors' graves, and when the spirits of their ancestors visit the household. Many join the fun in yukata, light cotton kimonos, and celebrations include games, festival foods, and traditional dances to honor the spirits!

The Yumoto Fujiya Hotel is a relaxing hot-spring resort for your stay in Hakone. The perfect spot to enjoy your vacation, relax in comfort surrounded by gorgeous scenery and a variety of indoor and outdoor hot spring baths. The onsite restaurant serves delicious Japanese meals and stay connected with high-speed internet (LAN) in your room.

Our morning begins with a visit to the Iyashi no Sato, a traditional craft open-air museum reconstructed from the village's thatched roofed houses. Each house features a different exhibit, workshop, or cafe, including some cooking lessons. Before making our way to the next destination, we will stop for Hoto, a Japanese noodle dish native to the Yamanashi area. A hybrid of miso soup and flat udon noodles, this dish is truly a local Japanese specialty. We will continue our journey to Hakone after our time in Tokyo.

Enjoy a ropeway to Owakudani, an active volcanic crater still steaming from its last eruption some 3,000 years ago. There you will get a taste of the local Japanese food, the black egg, cooked in one of the craters. It's said eating one of these eggs will add years to your life! This Japan tour would not be complete without a long relaxing soak in the onsen, hot spring, to rejuvenate you for tomorrow’s adventure. Yukata, a Japanese robe, will be provided for you. The onsen is located in our own ryokan, a Japanese style hotel, which includes a traditional Japanese meal known as Kaiseki Ryori!

Kyoto New Miyako Hotel is in the heart of the city. Directly across from Kyoto Station, it's easy access to other location in Kyoto and Japan. The hotel has great dining options and unique boutiques. Nearby the hotel is the Nishiki Market and Ryozen Museum of History.

Our day begins with a bullet train ride to Kyoto. The bullet train is the fastest way to travel on land and is considered an essential Japanese experience. Enjoy riding to Kyoto in comfort and speed, and be sure to take some photos of the scenery during your ride.

We will stop at a sake museum for some sampling and to learn the history of Japan's national drink. We will then head to Fushimi Inari Shrine, one of Kyoto's many can't miss destinations that features hundreds of red tori gates. The path is perfect for photos or just to calm your mind.

Once we get all our photos done, it's off to Nara to Todaiji Temple. Todaiji Temple holds the World Guinness Record as the largest wooden building. Inside the temple, you will behold the largest Buddha statue in Japan. Just outside the temple is the Nara Deer Park, where you will be greeted by numerous deer that roam around freely. The deer here at the park are known to be friendly and may even bow at you for a little treat. We then return to the hotel.

Kyoto New Miyako Hotel is in the heart of the city. Directly across from Kyoto Station, it's easy access to other location in Kyoto and Japan. The hotel has great dining options and unique boutiques. Nearby the hotel is the Nishiki Market and Ryozen Museum of History.

Our day begins with a visit to Arashiyama to walk through the Bamboo Groove Forest. The morning's sunlight passing through the bamboo makes for a perfect morning sight. We will also enjoy a spirited rickshaw ride through Arashiyama. Guests can enjoy seeing many of the traditional-style shops and temples during the ride.

Following our time in Arashiyama, we will head to the Golden Pavilion, or Kinkakuji Temple, a Japan’s must see attraction where the two upper floors are covered in gold leaf. The reflection of the golden temple on the lake adds to the stunning sight. After taking pictures, it's off to Ryoanji Temple to see the stunning rock gardens. Not all Japanese temples have them, so we made sure to include one of Kyoto's zen gardens.

To avoid getting too repetitive with the temples and shrines, we include a visit to the Nishijin Textile Center for a stunning kimono show! Keeping with the traditional feel, we included a tea-ceremony to help you relax before going back to the hotel. In the evening, we will head to the Gion Geisha District, Japan’s most famous geisha district. This area is filled with shops, restaurants, and tea houses and the area in Japan that you are most likely to run into real geisha and maiko on their way to perform at the Gion Geisha Center.

Day7

Day 7Osaka, Hyogo & Hiroshima | The best flavors in JapanBreakfastDinner

Sheraton Hiroshima Hotel is located in next to JR Hiroshima Station, with direct access to the bullet train and bus terminals. All the rooms are remodeled with modern furnishings and feature Sheraton Sweet Sleeper® Bed. The facility contains a indoor pool, business service, internet lounge, fitness center, and a spa. The hotel's location gives you easy access to the city's trolley system to Hiroshima Peace Park and Atomic Bomb Dome.

Nearby.........
-Department store and Station building
Yaleyale in 5 mins by walk.
ASSE (Station building) Next to the Hotel
Hiroshima Peace Park in 15 mins by trolley
Hiroshima Castle in 17 mins by trolley

We will begin today by heading to the Kuromon Ichiban Market in Osaka. This is the same market professional chefs in Osaka use to purchase new equipment for their kitchens. You can also find fresh produce and sample some of the flavors unique to this part of Japan.

Next our tour bus will make a stop at Himeji-jo, or Himeji Castle. Himeji-jo is a UNESCO distinguished site, representing Japanese castle architecture at its highest with almost all of the castle structure still intact from its original construction in the early 1600’s, having survived all wars, earthquakes and natural disasters. After our time in Himeji, we will head to Hiroshima.

Sheraton Hiroshima Hotel is located in next to JR Hiroshima Station, with direct access to the bullet train and bus terminals. All the rooms are remodeled with modern furnishings and feature Sheraton Sweet Sleeper® Bed. The facility contains a indoor pool, business service, internet lounge, fitness center, and a spa. The hotel's location gives you easy access to the city's trolley system to Hiroshima Peace Park and Atomic Bomb Dome.

Nearby.........
-Department store and Station building
Yaleyale in 5 mins by walk.
ASSE (Station building) Next to the Hotel
Hiroshima Peace Park in 15 mins by trolley
Hiroshima Castle in 17 mins by trolley

Today our Japan tour begins with a visit to the iconic Itsukushima Shrine. Located off the main shore on the island of Miyajima, the iconic gate that floats is a must see. During high tide, the torii gate looks as though it is floating in water, creating a unique sight, considered one of Japan’s three most beautiful sights. Miyajima is also known for its momiji manju (maple leaf shaped cake with red beans) and oysters which you can enjoy during your time on the island. After our visit, we will spend more time sight-seeing in Hiroshima.

One of the main highlights here in Hiroshima is the A-Bomb Dome, the only surviving building from the aftermath, and the Peace Park Memorial where you can see and read about the relic of the war. The A-Bomb Dome has been preserved to be a reminder of the tragedy for future generations and to symbolize its wishes for everlasting peace. Stroll along the park to see famous attractions like that of Sadako’s statue and the freedom bell. Here you can see and read about the relic of the war.

Day 9Hiroshima | Tour Disbands & Depart from JapanBreakfast

Featured Destinations & Experiences

Your pleasant and memorable Japan tour ends today. The tour will disband after breakfast. Fly home with cherished memories or enjoy your extended stay in Japan.

**INFORMATION**
From Hiroshima Station to Hiroshima Airport(HIJ) - about 45 mins (Bus)

This tour disbands in Hiroshima.

▪Important Notice▪
*Complimentary transfers are for designated airports/hotel only, on the designated tour arrival/departure date only.
*Your group may be joined with other groups during the tour. If so, your tour guide and bus may be changed during your tour.
*Any special request(s) must be submitted when booking your tour (meals, accommodations, etc.). Note: Not all requests can be fulfilled.
*Itinerary, hotels, and meals are subject to change or cancellation without notice. No refund will be owed for any changes or cancellations if the tour still occurs.
*This tour includes 1.5~2 hours of walking on sightseeing days. Tour Participants are expected to be of moderate fitness, keep up with the pace of the group, and can climb stairs with no difficulty.
*B : Breakfast L : Lunch D : Dinner

Important Information

The maximum number of participants will not exceed 26 people during your Japan tour. Your group may be joined with other tour groups during the tour. Please note that your bus and tour guide may be changed if other groups join the tour.

We request one suitcase, one carry-on bag, and an overnight bag per person. The tote bag we provide can be used to hold any small merchandise/souvenirs purchased during your tour. When you check out, bring your luggage to the lobby and the bus driver will assist in loading it onto the bus. When you arrive at the next hotel, the bus driver will unload your luggage for you to bring to your room.

Please note: The maximum weight of a checked in bag is typically 20 Kilograms or 44 Pounds. You will be traveling with your luggage except during the bullet train ride (if applicable).

All of our tours begin in either Tokyo or Osaka/Kyoto. When beginning or ending a tour in Tokyo, please book flights to or from Narita International Airport or Haneda International Airport. For tours beginning or ending in Osaka/Kyoto, please book flights to or from Kansai International Airport or Itami Airport.

We recommend you do not book your flights until the tour status changes from Book Now to Guaranteed Departure. You can also contact us if you would like for Japan Deluxe Tour's to arrange your flights.

Traveling and visiting sights in Japan includes a good amount of walking. To fully enjoy the tour, please be prepared to keep up with the pace of the group, climb stairs with no difficulty, and wear comfortable shoes for all day use.

We understand sometimes unanticipated situations may arise before or even during your Japan tour. In order to best assist you when things don't go as planned, Japan Deluxe Tours recommends purchasing travel insurance offered through Travel Guard® Insurance.

Day 1Tokyo | Arrive in Japan & Check-in Hotel

Welcome to Japan! We will have transportation services to take you to your hotel. Please refer to your tour handbook for more information.
Rest at the hotel and be ready to start your exciting tour tomorrow.

**INFORMATION**
From Narita Airport to downtown hotel in Tokyo - about 90 mins(Bus)
From Haneda Airport to downtown hotel in Tokyo - about 30 mins(Bus)

Day 2Tokyo | Leisure-Free

We have cleared up the day for you to explore and enjoy Japan as you wish.
You can either1) enjoy the entire day as you wish2) visit Tokyo Disney Land, Fuji Q Amusement Park, or Sanrio Puroland3) join a Japanese Cherry Blossom Walking Tour4) or go on a private-guided tour through Nikko or Kamakura.
For those who wish to visit Tokyo Disney Land, Fuji Q Amusement Park, or Sanrio Puroland, your tour guide will be happy to explain directions.
(Not all fees included for additional tour options. Please contact us in advanced for this service)

*Tsukiji Fish Market is closed on Wednesdays and Sundays. In the Event it is closed, we will skip this stop

Today will be devoted to exploring the multi-cultural spots of Tokyo. Our tour will first stop by the Fukagawa Edo Museum where you can get acquainted with the history of Tokyo. This charming museum is designed to replicate what life looked like during the old days of Edo. Walk through the city and enjoy walking into houses that recreate life during the period. We will also visit the Kiyosumi Garden located nearby. Enjoy a peaceful stroll through a Japanese garden, and be sure to take a picture of the tea house on the waters. We will then delve in the old town district of Asakusa for some gift shopping at the Nakamise area. We will also be visiting the Sensoji Temple, one of Tokyo's most popular temples. This is the perfect place to appreciate Japanese culture and take some spectacular shots of the famous Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate).

For lunch, enjoy sushi with fish provided by the Tsukiji Fish Market, the famous fish market that provides freshest ingredients for thousands of families and businesses alike. Following our time at the market, the tour will probe the stores at Harajuku, the unofficial fashion capital of Japan that offers the latest pop culture and fashion. Experience the chaos and beauty that is Takeshita Dori, the place to go for fashion and crepes. Before leaving Takeshita Dori, walk along Omotesando street, a popular shopping destination lined with trendy cafe's in between. Returning to our hotel, the tour bus will be passing by the famous Shibuya Crosswalk to be part of the thousands who cross daily, and to see the Hachiko Statue close to the station. The statue is based on the story of Hachiko, the dog who would come back to the station every day to see his owner.

As the day continues, it's time for dancing and fun during the Obon Festival in Harajuku. Obon is a time to honor the spirits of one's ancestors, a special family reunion holiday where families visit and clean their ancestors' graves, and when the spirits of their ancestors visit the household. Many join the fun in yukata, light cotton kimonos, and celebrations include games, festival foods, and traditional dances to honor the spirits!

Our morning begins with a visit to the Iyashi no Sato, a traditional craft open-air museum reconstructed from the village's thatched roofed houses. Each house features a different exhibit, workshop, or cafe, including some cooking lessons. Before making our way to the next destination, we will stop for Hoto, a Japanese noodle dish native to the Yamanashi area. A hybrid of miso soup and flat udon noodles, this dish is truly a local Japanese specialty. We will continue our journey to Hakone after our time in Tokyo.

Enjoy a ropeway to Owakudani, an active volcanic crater still steaming from its last eruption some 3,000 years ago. There you will get a taste of the local Japanese food, the black egg, cooked in one of the craters. It's said eating one of these eggs will add years to your life! This Japan tour would not be complete without a long relaxing soak in the onsen, hot spring, to rejuvenate you for tomorrow’s adventure. Yukata, a Japanese robe, will be provided for you. The onsen is located in our own ryokan, a Japanese style hotel, which includes a traditional Japanese meal known as Kaiseki Ryori!

Our day begins with a bullet train ride to Kyoto. The bullet train is the fastest way to travel on land and is considered an essential Japanese experience. Enjoy riding to Kyoto in comfort and speed, and be sure to take some photos of the scenery during your ride.

We will stop at a sake museum for some sampling and to learn the history of Japan's national drink. We will then head to Fushimi Inari Shrine, one of Kyoto's many can't miss destinations that features hundreds of red tori gates. The path is perfect for photos or just to calm your mind.

Once we get all our photos done, it's off to Nara to Todaiji Temple. Todaiji Temple holds the World Guinness Record as the largest wooden building. Inside the temple, you will behold the largest Buddha statue in Japan. Just outside the temple is the Nara Deer Park, where you will be greeted by numerous deer that roam around freely. The deer here at the park are known to be friendly and may even bow at you for a little treat. We then return to the hotel.

Day 6Kyoto | Japan's Ancient Culture

Our day begins with a visit to Arashiyama to walk through the Bamboo Groove Forest. The morning's sunlight passing through the bamboo makes for a perfect morning sight. We will also enjoy a spirited rickshaw ride through Arashiyama. Guests can enjoy seeing many of the traditional-style shops and temples during the ride.

Following our time in Arashiyama, we will head to the Golden Pavilion, or Kinkakuji Temple, a Japan’s must see attraction where the two upper floors are covered in gold leaf. The reflection of the golden temple on the lake adds to the stunning sight. After taking pictures, it's off to Ryoanji Temple to see the stunning rock gardens. Not all Japanese temples have them, so we made sure to include one of Kyoto's zen gardens.

To avoid getting too repetitive with the temples and shrines, we include a visit to the Nishijin Textile Center for a stunning kimono show! Keeping with the traditional feel, we included a tea-ceremony to help you relax before going back to the hotel. In the evening, we will head to the Gion Geisha District, Japan’s most famous geisha district. This area is filled with shops, restaurants, and tea houses and the area in Japan that you are most likely to run into real geisha and maiko on their way to perform at the Gion Geisha Center.

Day 7Osaka, Hyogo & Hiroshima | The best flavors in Japan

We will begin today by heading to the Kuromon Ichiban Market in Osaka. This is the same market professional chefs in Osaka use to purchase new equipment for their kitchens. You can also find fresh produce and sample some of the flavors unique to this part of Japan.

Next our tour bus will make a stop at Himeji-jo, or Himeji Castle. Himeji-jo is a UNESCO distinguished site, representing Japanese castle architecture at its highest with almost all of the castle structure still intact from its original construction in the early 1600’s, having survived all wars, earthquakes and natural disasters. After our time in Himeji, we will head to Hiroshima.

Day 8Hiroshima | Iconic Floating Shrine of Japan

Today our Japan tour begins with a visit to the iconic Itsukushima Shrine. Located off the main shore on the island of Miyajima, the iconic gate that floats is a must see. During high tide, the torii gate looks as though it is floating in water, creating a unique sight, considered one of Japan’s three most beautiful sights. Miyajima is also known for its momiji manju (maple leaf shaped cake with red beans) and oysters which you can enjoy during your time on the island. After our visit, we will spend more time sight-seeing in Hiroshima.

One of the main highlights here in Hiroshima is the A-Bomb Dome, the only surviving building from the aftermath, and the Peace Park Memorial where you can see and read about the relic of the war. The A-Bomb Dome has been preserved to be a reminder of the tragedy for future generations and to symbolize its wishes for everlasting peace. Stroll along the park to see famous attractions like that of Sadako’s statue and the freedom bell. Here you can see and read about the relic of the war.

Day 9Hiroshima | Tour Disbands & Depart from Japan

Your pleasant and memorable Japan tour ends today. The tour will disband after breakfast. Fly home with cherished memories or enjoy your extended stay in Japan.

**INFORMATION**
From Hiroshima Station to Hiroshima Airport(HIJ) - about 45 mins (Bus)

This tour disbands in Hiroshima.

Breakfast

Dining Experience

Kaiseki Ryori

It is a traditional Japanese multi course meal consists of multiple small dishes starting with appetizers and sashimi then leading to the main dishes tempura and grilled fish, rice, pickled vegetables, and miso soup.

Hoto

Hōtō is a popular dish in Yamanashi made using miso soup and flat udon noodles. While some may consider Hōtō a variant of udon, locals consider this a unique dish separate to the popular thick noodles.

Sushi at Tsukiji Fish Market

It traditionally consists of seafood placed on top of a small, bite sized portion of vinegared white. The seafood is usually a sliced piece of raw fish; tuna, salmon, yellow tail, or seafood such as shrimp or uni.